What steps should I take to deal with a “sextortion” scam?
My partner was messaging someone from a chat website and sent nude pictures of himself. Now someone is threatening to post the pictures publicly and claim they’re underage unless he sends money. The chat logs show they said they were 21. He panicked and already sent $200 via PayPal; they’re asking for more. What should he do?
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Has your partner blocked the person? This is almost definitely a scam—common on dating sites. It’s extortion (18 U.S.C. § 873). He should stop paying, block them, and report to police or the FBI at ic3.gov. Does that make sense?
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My partner was messaging someone from a chat website and sent nude pictures of himself. Now someone is threatening to post the pictures publicly and claim they’re underage unless he sends money. The chat logs show they said they were 21. He panicked and already sent $200 via PayPal; they’re asking for more. What should he do?
Elizabeth
Has your partner blocked the person? This is almost definitely a scam—common on dating sites. It’s extortion (18 U.S.C. § 873). He should stop paying, block them, and report to police or the FBI at ic3.gov. Does that make sense?
Yes.
Elizabeth
Great. Has he blocked them?
No.
Elizabeth
Because it’s a scam, blocking and not sending more money is recommended.
He’s worried they’ll post the pictures. Do scammers actually do that? Is he more protected if we make a police report?
Elizabeth
Posting would increase criminal charges against them (if they’re in the U.S.) and gives the scammer no benefit. Filing a report helps document the crime and can offer protection.
Thank you for your advice.
Elizabeth
You’re very welcome!
Elizabeth
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